SATURDAY, MARCH 21, 2020
SERVING DOWAGIAC, SISTER LAKES AND CASSOPOLIS
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INSIDE TODAY: Cassopolis Vigilant
Sidenbender selects Bethel P9
OBITUARIES Michael Olinger, of Dowagiac Janet Carlile, of Dowagiac Fred Davis, of Niles
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Front
yard appeal City accepting applications for fifth round of Neighborhood Enhancement Grant
Front
Page 2 • Saturday, March 21, 2020
yard appeal City accepting applications for fifth round of Neighborhood Enhancement Grant By HANNAH HOLLIDAY hannah.holliday@leaderpub.com DOWAGIAC — Residents living in the northern neighborhood of the city will now have a chance to improve their homes aesthetically. The city of Dowagiac is currently taking applications for the 2020 Round 5 Neighborhood Enhancement Grant until 5 p.m. on Friday, April 10. The grant, awarded by the Michigan State Housing Department Authority, will award NEP grant dollars to six homes in the northern neighborhoods of the city. The grant will provide up to $5,000 worth of exterior improvements to single-family homes in
LOCAL
Rita Holloway, of Dowagiac, was one of the recipients of the Round 4 Neighborhood Enhancement Grant offered by the city of Dowagiac through the Michigan State Housing Development Authority. (Leader photos/EMILY SOBECKI)
the city of Dowagiac to enhance curb and neighborhood appeal. The enhancements come in the form of paved driveways, updated porches and landscaping. To qualify for the grant, homeowners must own a single-family home within the city of Dowagiac, and it must be their primary residence. Interested applicants must also meet income requirements and cannot be delinquent in their mortgage, insurance or utility payments. The selected homes also cannot have any outstanding code enforcement cases pending. However, the improvements do not stop there. The city was also awarded an additional $25,000 in high performer grant dol-
Dowagiac Daily News lars for its work on Round 4 NEP grants. “Round 4 we did last year between July and December,” said Assistant City Manager Natalie Dean. “At the end of the grant, MSHDA decided we administered the grant so well, and our projects went so well that we were awarded extra money. I applied for it and had no idea whether we would get it.” During the administration of the Round 4 NEP grant, 10 homes, including Dowagiac resident Rita Holloway’s house on Grove Street, secured visual enhancements. The additional $25,000 of high performer money will be administered in the southern neighborhoods. Dean said 14 or 15 applicants applied last fall, and she will be speaking with them to see how they can still use the grant money. “I am hoping to help the people who already applied, but we will see what happens,” she said. With the application open less than a week, Dean said she has already received some interest and had a man stop in to pick up an application. For Round 5, the city will be doing a lottery system instead of a first-come-first-serve basis, which was used during Round 5. “The last time we were left with so many applicants that we just couldn’t pick everybody, so this year we are going to make it as fair as we can by doing a public opening,” Dean said. The public lottery drawing will be hosted in the city hall chambers at 3 p.m. Monday, April 13, to determine who will receive this year’s grants. Dean has also uploaded the application to the city of Dowagiac’s website amid the coronavirus pandemic. “It’s not a huge application, and we are hoping that will stop people from trying to get out and about to drop it off,” she said. Dean said she hopes residents will take advantage of the curbside enhancements the grant can provide for homes. “This year we can do 11 homes total, instead of 10. We are just picking up the pace,” Dean said.
A new way to worship LOCAL
Dowagiac Daily News
Saturday, March 21, 2020 • Page 3
Local churches turn to virtual services in the wake of coronavirus concerns By SARAH CULTON sarah.culton@leaderpub.com SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN — Last Sunday, Dowagiac’s First United Methodist Church Pastor Chris Momany began his day like he would any other Sunday. He got up, dressed, and headed over to the church, 326 N. Lowe St., Dowagiac, and prepared to deliver a message about the woman at the well, which is found in the book of John. However, unlike a typical Sunday, when he went to the pulpit to deliver his sermon, his voice echoed across a nearly empty room. “We are worshipping in kind of a different way today,” he said to begin his sermon, speaking to pews filled with just a handful of church staff members. “We hope that those of you at home will be able to join us online.” In light of concerns surrounding the spread of the COVID-19 virus, also known as the coronavirus, and a state-mandated ban on gatherings of 50 people or more, churches are getting creative about how to operate and reach their congregations. Now Momany’s church is just one of many churches that have canceled face-to-face service in favor of virtual services. Last Sunday, Momany’s service was recorded and uploaded to YouTube and social media to allow church members to partake in worship while practicing social distancing, which, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is vital to helping curb the spread of the coronavirus. While Momany said he misses the eye-contact and occasional “amen” he gets when preaching to a live audience, he is prepared to continue virtual services as long as needed to keep congregants
LEFT: Pictured is Chris Momany of First United Methodist Church in Dowagiac. His church has moved to online services in light of coronavirus concerns. RIGHT: Relevant Church in Niles is one of many across the country moving to online services in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak. (Leader file photos)
safe and healthy. His church is still fine-tuning the details of how it will handle particular needs, such as communion, over the internet. Still, Momany is confident that the church will come out of the coronavirus crisis strong. “It’s important for people to know that we are still worshiping,” Momany said. “We are still having service, and we are still reaching out.” As of this week, Momany and his team were working to improve the church website to better suit virtual needs and was also working to implement live-streamed services. On the less technical side of things, Momany was committing to writing letters to church members, complete with a custom wax seal, to provide encouragement to them. He is also ensuring that he is available to answer phone calls to help guide his members in spiritual matters. “Letter writing is a lost art,” Momany said. “I know that sounds clunky and old fashioned, but I think there is something person-
al about that, and it will encourage people. I think a lot of people are afraid, and even if they are not afraid, we have this term, social distancing, which is, in some ways, the opposite of what Christian people want to do. We are going to distance ourselves physically, but we want to find ways to stay emotionally and spiritually together.” Across county lines, Niles’ Relevant Church has also turned to virtual service. However, Pastor Muta Mwenya said the switch to online service was less of a challenge for his church, as Relevant is a mobile church that has gone virtual in the past. Additionally, the church already has an established, prominent online and social media presence. With more than 300 total individuals who call Relevant home and Sunday services that draw numbers exceeding 150, Mwenya’s church is one of the largest in the area to move to online services. Wednesday, Mwenya was working with a small crew to record worship songs and services for
Sunday’s broadcast. Though he was working in a building with little power, he said he and his “killer team” were making things work by setting up makeshift lighting and creative framing. “Our church is portable, and we are used to doing church in a nontraditional space,” Mwenya said. “It is a challenge, but we are rising to it.” Unlike Momany, Mwenya said he is taking a more personal approach with his virtual sermons. Instead of preaching to empty pews, last Sunday’s broadcast was framed close to his face, just himself talking to a camera inside his office. The church will be broadcasting services on its website at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. Mwenya hopes that each virtual service he hosts will be personal and draw watchers to Christ. “We want to create an experience that still gives people hope,” he said. “We want people to know that church is still open — it just looks a little different now.” So far, both Mwenya and Momany said people have been re-
sponding positively to virtual services. Due to services being posted on several different platforms, neither pastor could provide complete numbers of how many people had tuned into Sunday services. However, as of press time Friday, Relevant’s Facebook video had 287 views, and First United Methodist’s Youtube video had 145 views. Finding a silver lining in what has befallen their churches, both pastors said they believe the online format will allow their messages to reach beyond their usual congregations and spread the gospel throughout Michiana. “This is an exciting time for the church because the church thrives in adversity,” Mwenya said. “The gospel is the message of hope that gets to go viral because churches everywhere are doing online services. There is going to be a global impact. This is tough and challenging for the church, but it is a time when the global church has risen. We are under crisis, but this is going to be our best hour yet.”
Page 4 • Saturday, March 21, 2020
Dowagiac Daily News ADMINISTRATIVE
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OPINION
Dowagiac Daily News
‘Look for the helpers’ STAFF COLUMN
“W
hen I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’” — Mr. Rogers As we have reported scary news this week, we have also followed Mr. Rogers’ mother’s advice and looked for the helpers. We have not had to look far. In the most difficult and polarizing times, people come together. We have experienced this on a national level through tragedies like Sept. 11 and mass shootings, and on the local level during catastrophic events such as the flood of 2018. After witnessing the generosity of our community time and time again, I have not been surprised to see people step up and out to help
AMBROSIA NELDON is the general manager at Leader Publications. She can be reached by phone at (269) 687-7700 or by email at ambrosia.neldon@ leaderpub.com
others — but I have been moved to see just how many have done so. Through rapid change and rampant fear in our community, we have shared stories that warmed my heart. Stories of businesses already suffering to make ends meet but donating food to healthcare workers and elderly anyway. Stories of school employees risking their health to be sure children are fed. Stories of fitness instructors offering virtual workout sessions for free, in spite of their businesses
being forced to close. Stories of people standing out in the rain, purchasing lunch from a food truck to support a restaurant forced to serve to-go meals only. Someone told me this week, “I hope you are sharing the good news that is coming from this,” and I had to laugh. As scary and difficult as the coronavirus social distancing mandates are, I have smiled more than I have worried this week. Whenever fear has begun to creep in with the more sobering news, I have followed Mr. Rogers’ mother’s advice and looked for the helpers. As I flipped through the pages of our newspaper or scrolled through our website, I remembered that although we cannot physically be together, our communities are united, and they are strong. I keep reminding myself that when this is all over, we will have a
new appreciation for so much that I have taken for granted before. The value of human touch, hugs and handshakes. The joy that comes from being surrounded by others in fitness classes. The ability to borrow books from the library. The cozy feeling that comes with enjoying dinner and a cold beverage at your favorite restaurant. The enormous hearts and patience of your educators. The bravery of medical personnel. And apparently, having toilet paper readily available? With weeks of social distancing ahead, we are bound to get restless. Cabin fever will kick in and we will be tempted by fear, but if we continue to look for the helpers, we can get through this all together. In fact, we may all be better for it.
GUEST COLUMN
Sunshine is important now more than ever
“S
unshine is the best disinfectant,” so stated Justice Louis Brandeis. The Michigan Press Association feels strongly that transparency in government is crucial to democracy. Especially in times of crisis like the one we are currently facing. We understand that at all levels of government public servants are scrambling to do what is best and right for the safety of Michigan citizens and we are working with groups like the Michigan Municipal league to sail these uncharted waters while still preserving the public’s right to know. Monday evening, MML Executive Director Dan Gilmartin issued the following statement: “the current restrictions of Michigan’s Open Meeting Act are hampering the ability of local governments to meet the needs of first responders, health care workers, businesses and constituents in responding to the coronavirus pandemic. We call on state officials to move quickly to allow city and village councils and other local governments to hold meetings via virtual modes
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of communications, such as teleconferences and Skype, when possible during this critical period. The Michigan Municipal League is strongly supportive of a fully transparent government – but also of one capable of doing its job of protecting the health, safety and welfare of people. Quick, decisive action is needed now, by our state leaders and our local leaders.” It is the position of the Michigan Press Association that quick, decisive action is achievable while still maintaining the important tenants of the Open Meetings Act: • Deferring what can be deferred and addressing only those items that are absolutely necessary • Ensuring that the public has ability to hear all participants and participate themselves; and • Proper notice. Because local public bodies should be addressing only those items that are absolutely necessary, we think it is also critical to make agendas and meeting packets available online in advance of the meeting.
If the local public body does not have an online presence, notices of the meeting and information on how people can participate should be run in local newspapers along with a meeting agenda; meeting packets, agendas, and minutes should be made available online either through a local newspaper or the MPA’s offered internet site. MPA has also made it clear that it will work with its members to make such notices available quickly and inform the public where it can find the information. We also feel that violations should be challengeable up to 90 days after the emergency is declared over to allow for proper review of any questionable scenarios. This is a difficult time in our state, and citizens are looking to their government officials to lead while still providing access to information and government action. James Tarrant is the executive director of the Michigan Press Association.
Letters to the Editor may be submitted via email to news@leaderpub.com, or by mail to 217 N. 4th St., Niles, MI 49120. Letters must be 300 words or less and submitted by a local author. To read the full letter policy, visit www.leaderpub.com
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OPINION
Dowagiac Daily News
Saturday, March 21, 2020 • Page 5
GUEST COLUMN
Don’t underestimate the education from community colleges
C
ommunity colleges have been around for almost 120 years, yet we’re still a little misunderstood. Our story began in Joliet, Illinois, during the dawn of the 20th Century’s national economic boom. The first two-year college was established as a path for all people to achieve economic success regardless of their class position or background. We’ve been referred to as junior, technical and community colleges, but now most of us are just plain colleges. Regardless of our name, we’ve consistently shared an important mission — to provide our communities with high quality, accessible, affordable education. I’ve spent much of my career working for a variety of public and private colleges and universities, but when I took my first job at a community college 20 years ago, I knew I had found my passion. Since then I’ve been trying to bust the common myths that keep too many people
from making a great choice. Myth 1: Community colleges are for students who cannot get into a university. Many of our students are high academic achievers. They applied to and got accepted into universities, but chose to save up to $50,000 by attending a two-year college first. That’s enough to buy a brand-new Tesla, a hefty down payment on a house or cover the cost of a master’s degree. Other students prefer the small, close-knit environment and individual attention that a community college offers, or they just want to stay near their families. Regardless of the reason, our students aren’t here for lack of other options. Myth 2: Community colleges do not offer the “real college experience.” Community colleges haven’t always provided the same student experience as four-year schools, but that’s quickly changing. Our students are living on campus, playing sports,
joining clubs, studying abroad, forging life-long friendships and growing professional networks. At Lake Michigan College, 71 percent of students are under the age of 25, but we’re also versatile enough to accommodate students who are raising families or working full-time. The opportunity to share a classroom with diverse students from all walks of life is a unique advantage of the community college experience. Like most things in life, a community college experience is what you make it, and the options are virtually endless. Myth 3: Community College credits do not transfer. Transferring from community college to a four-year university is more common than ever. In fact, 52 percent of all bachelor’s degree earners in Michigan went to community college first. In 2014, our state developed the Michigan Transfer Agreement, which allows students to complete general
education courses that easily transfer toward a bachelor’s degree. Last month, there were even more statewide agreements introduced for programs including biology, business, criminal justice and psychology. Community college advisors are experts at helping students create, and stick with successful transfer plans that won’t waste any time or money. Myth 4: College is too expensive and I cannot afford to go. Because the vast majority of well-paying jobs in the future will require some education beyond high school, you really can’t afford not to go to college. A college degree is still one of the best long-term investments you can make. A two-year associate degree will increase your earnings by more than $16,000 each year. A degree will give you more power over your career, and help insulate you from the ups and downs of the economy.
Yes, it’s true the cost of higher education has generally risen, but public community colleges are committed to keeping college affordable. We’re about one third of the average cost of Michigan public universities and even less compared to private schools. Plus, scholarships and financial aid often cover a good portion of tuition, fees and even books. I hope this clears up a few myths and misunderstandings for young people trying to decide their futures, their families, and working adults who want to make a career change. Michigan is fortunate to have 28 community colleges throughout the state. For more than a century we’ve been helping to transform lives, families and communities through education, and just like our students, we just keep getting better. Trevor Kubatzke is the president of Lake Michigan College. He can be reached at by phone at (269) 927-8600 or by email at tkubatzke@lakemichigancollege.edu.
Page 6 • Saturday, March 21, 2020
DEATH NOTICES Janet Carlile, 71, of Dowagiac, died Sunday, March 15, 2020. There will be no services. If desired, donations in her memory can be made to the Cass County Animal Shelter or the Dowagiac Library. Arrangements entrusted to Brown Funeral Home. Fred Davis, 87, of Niles passed March 18, 2020, at his residence surrounded by family. A memorial service to celebrate Fred’s life. will be at a later time. BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.
We’ll be there when you need us most
OBITUARIES
Michael Olinger April 5, 1959 —March 5, 2020
Michael Glenn Olinger, 60, of Dowagiac, went to be home with the Lord on Thursday, March 5, 2020, in Kalamazoo, after an ongoing battle with cancer. He was born on April 5, 1959, in Chicago, the son of Wayne E. Olinger and Julia C. (Ledberg-Olinger) Williams. Mike graduated from Dowagiac Union High School in 1977 with honors and continued his studies at Southwestern Michigan College where he earned several degrees. Mike was a longtime employee at Ameriwood Industries in Dowagiac and then the Greater Ka-
lamazoo Auto Auction of Schoolcraft, Michigan. One of Mike’s most shining talents was being a great DJ, and with the addition of karaoke in the ‘90s, had a very successful business while entertaining thousands of people at a variety of different
Dowagiac Daily News types of parties, including weddings, events and bars. Mike enjoyed fishing, canoeing, sunshine, being anywhere close to the lakes, listening to music, television, pizza, Taco Bell and the nightlife. Surviving are Mike’s mother, Julia C. Williams, of Dowagiac; sister, Wanda Olinger McCue, of Blue Island, Illinois; nephews, Jake McCue and William McCue, both of Blue Island, Illinois; and second cousin, Joanne Herold, of Chicago. Mike was preceded in death by his father, Wayne E. Olinger; step-father, Bernard E. Williams; grandparents, Axel E. and Hermina M. (Fleck) Ledberg
and Thomas E. and Ruby V. Olinger, and lastly his faithful canine friend, Klinger. The family wishes to thank Rose Arbor Hospice of Kalamazoo for the excellent care that staff and nurses gave to Michael in his last days. Per Mike’s wishes, cremation has taken place with Whitley Memorial Funeral Home, Kalamazoo, being in charge of arrangements. A celebration of life event will be at a later date. Donations may be directed to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan. For a complete obituary including a photo/tribute wall, please visit. Whitleymemorialfuneralhome. com. As a reminder, please wear your sunscreen.
CANCELED EVENTS Here is a list of canceled, postponed or updated events in the area due to the coronavirus pandemic growing. • The Edwardsburg Lions Club Breakfast is canceled. • Dr. T.K. Lawless Park’s grand opening of the International Dark Sky Park is canceled after a decision made by the parks and recreation board. Organizers plan to keep in touch as they look to reschedule the event. • Niles Charter Township Fire Department Association’s all you can eat pancake, waffle and sausage breakfast for Sunday, March 22 is canceled. Organizers believe this to be the best option for the health and safety of our community and firefighters. • Edwardsburg Area Chamber of Commerce has canceled its April 1 chamber meeting due to the coronavirus situation. Send canceled, postponed or updated calendar items to the newsroom at news@ leaderpub.com.
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LOCAL
Dowagiac Daily News
Saturday, March 21, 2020 • Page 7
Drugs lead to prison
Elkhart man sentenced in 2019 Edwardsburg incident By DEBRA HAIGHT Leader Publications Contributor CASSOPOLIS — An Elkhart man found with drugs inside an Edwardsburg area home last February is going to prison after being sentenced Friday in Cass County Circuit Court. Friday’s court docket was shorter than normal as court personnel sought to abide by new state emergency orders in light of the coronavirus pandemic. The Michigan State Supreme Court ordered Wednesday that most court cases where defendants were not in jail be adjourned. They further ordered that only 10 people be allowed in the courtroom. Joshua Michael Butler, 41, of Elkhart, pleaded guilty to delivery/manufacturing of methamphetamines and maintaining a drug house and was sentenced to two and a half years to 20 years in prison. He has credit for 136 days already served and was ordered to pay $1,326 in fines and costs. That incident occurred Feb. 17, 2019, at a residence on Channel Parkway in Mason Township near Edwardsburg. Police arrested Butler and two women in the home. The incident occurred after a fourth subject fled police in Elkhart and barricaded himself inside the Channel Parkway home. According to earlier reports, members of the Cass County Drug Enforcement Team found more than an ounce of
meth as well as meth paraphernalia, cash and marijuana. Two stolen vehicles were recovered from the property. Cass County Prosecutor Victor Fitz reported that police found $4,000 in cash as well as meth, cocaine and marijuana in the home. Butler had two prior criminal convictions. Butler also was given credit for 132 days already served in a separate case where he pleaded guilty to receiving, concealing or possession of stolen property-motor vehicle. He was ordered to pay $1,048 in fines, costs and restitution in that case. That incident occurred May 16, 2019, in the Edwardsburg area. An Edwardsburg man was also sentenced to prison in Friday’s sentencings. Len Lester Kelley, 42, of North Shore Drive in Edwardsburg, pleaded guilty to deliver/manufacture of methamphetamines and possession of cocaine/ narcotics under 50 grams, both as a habitual offender, and was sentenced to seven to 40 years in prison. He has credit for 329 days already served and must pay $1,936.50 in fines, costs and restitution. The incident occurred April 29, 2019, in the 27000 block of Pine Lake Street near Edwardsburg. During a traffic stop, police found a total of 20 grams of meth worth $4,000 in street value as well as a stolen slot machine. Fitz reported that Kelley had an extensive criminal history, with six prior felony and 12 mis-
demeanor convictions. Also Friday: • Julia Campos-Zapata, 43, of Elkhart, pleaded guilty to attempted identity theft and was sentenced to credit for 103 days served and fines and costs of $198. The incident occurred at a residence in the 27000 block of May Street in Edwardsburg. • Ricky Dean Oliver, 56, of East Division Street in Dowagiac, pleaded guilty to receiving, concealing or possession of stolen property more than $20,000 and conspiracy to receive, conceal or possess of stolen property over $20,000 as a habitual offender and was sentenced to probation in the Adult Treatment Court and $62,000 in restitution. The incident occurred Sept. 15, 2019, at a residence in the 25000 block of Harris Street in Edwardsburg. Fitz said a large piece of machinery stolen from the JA Wagner Construction Company in Indiana was found in Cass County. He was also sentenced for a probation violation in a 2016 case involving drugs and stolen property. • Crystal Marie Vance, 44, homeless, pleaded guilty to resisting and obstructing police as a habitual offender and disturbing the peace and was sentenced to one year in jail with credit for 203 days already served. The incident occurred April 29, 2019, at S. Lowe and High streets
Johsua Michael Butler
Ricky Dean Oliver
Jason Scott Ryans
in Dowagiac. • In a resentencing, an Edwardsburg man was resentenced after the Michigan Court of Appeals vacated his sentence from a 2018 case. The Court of Appeals ruled that one sentencing variable had been scored incorrectly which in turn changed the guidelines and required a resentencing.
Jason Scott Ryans, 44, of Old Michigan 205 near Edwardsburg, was sentenced to prison in Cass Circuit Court in January 2018 on drug-related charges. He was sentenced to three to 20 years in prison for possession of methamphetamine and possession of marijuana as a habitual offender. Ryans was arrested
May 4, 2017, at a home in Mason Township near Edwardsburg and found to be in possession of both methamphetamine and marijuana. His new sentence is 23 months to four years in prison. He is now eligible for parole but will still be kept in custody awaiting child pornography charges.
LOCAL
Page 8 • Saturday, March 21, 2020
Dowagiac Daily News
Economic support available to small business owners SUBMITTED LANSING — The state of Michigan’s small business entrepreneurial support organizations have joined forces with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation to ensure economic support is available to Michigan businesses to overcome anticipated loss of revenue as a result of the COVID-19 virus. “Small businesses drive the economies of our communities, and we understand that they are facing unprecedented challenges. We are committed to providing vital economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing,” said MEDC CEO Mark Burton. “We are working with small business organizations and partners around the
state to ensure that every possible resource is made available to businesses, communities, entrepreneurs and others around the state, and we will continue to provide updates as soon as they’re available.” Gov. Gretchen Whitmer informed the U.S. Small Business Administration she is seeking an Economic Injury Disaster Loan Declaration for the state and has initiated the process to receive the declaration from SBA. That application process is expected to be completed this week. Earlier this month, Congress passed legislation that makes $1 billion available to the SBA to provide low-interest loans to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, and nonprofits that have suffered substantial economic losses as a result of the
COVID-19 pandemic. SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loans offer up to $2 million in assistance and can provide vital economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing. MEDC is also encouraging businesses and communities throughout the state to learn more about its wide range of tools aimed at assisting Michigan’s small- and medium-sized businesses. In particular, the MEDC Access to Capital programs can provide greater availability of working capital during times of growth, change or economic uncertainty. To support businesses and communities during this unprecedented time, the organization will also be evaluating virtual matchmaking and other enhancements to programs such as its International
VBCDHD public health services remain open throughout the COVID-19 response SUBMITTED DOWAGIAC — To protect the public’s health and reduce the spread of COVID-19, Van Buren/Cass District Health Department has made temporary adjustments to public services offered in Van Buren and Cass County. Important updates to note include: • All individuals visiting the Van Buren/Cass District Health Department will receive a health risk assessment (questionnaire) and temperature check prior to entering the building. • All community dental clinics are closed for preventative and restorative care appointments and will tentatively re-
open Monday, April 6. • Emergency dental care is available at all three locations (57418 CR 681, Hartford, 302 S. Front St., Dowagiac, 23200 Red Arrow Hwy., Mattawan). Individuals in need of care should call 800-210-1921 to schedule an appointment as hours may vary. • All other public health services (immunizations; STD testing/treatment; CSHCS; TB contact investigations; water and septic inspections; and food permits) are operating as usual. Visit vbcasshd.org for more information about how to access local public health services. For general questions regarding COVID-19, individuals are encouraged to visit vbcassdhd.org/covid-19, or call
the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services COVID-19 hotline at 888-5356136. This hotline is available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days per week. “As you know, the COVID-19 outbreak is a fluid, rapidly evolving situation and we are regularly receiving ongoing guidance and information from MDHHS and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention,” said Jeff Elliott, health officer/administrator with VBCDHD. “We are committed to responding to the COVID-19 pandemic and providing our community, school, healthcare and government leaders with updated information so informed decisions can be made.”
Trade, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Pure Michigan Business Connect, PlanetM and Match on Main Street programs. “I’m so proud to see the state’s small business resources rally together in this time of crisis. The stories we are hearing from the small businesses affected by COVID-19 are devastating,” said State Director of the Michigan Small Business Development Center J.D. Collins. “Rest assured that the combined resources of Michigan’s small business support system are here to help.” MEDC’s call center stands ready to support businesses looking for assistance through other available state programs. For more information, visit MEDC’s website: MichiganBusiness.org or call (888) 522-0103. The Michigan Small Business Develop-
ment Center can also provide resources for small businesses impacted by COVID-19. Visit their website sbdcmichigan.org/ small-business-covid19/ for additional information. For more information about the impact that COVID-19 will have on small businesses and how to help them better prepare for this economic impact, visit the Small Business Development Center’s FAQ page. Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus. For those who have questions about the state’s actions to mitigate the spread of coronavirus, please call the COVID-19 Hotline at 1 (888) 535-6136 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. daily.
POLICE LOG — MARCH 13 TO 18 March 13 7:20 a.m. — N. Front/E. Wayne, traffic stop 7:40 a.m. — 200 block of E. Prairie Ronde, stalking 10:10 a.m. — 100 block of N. Front, retail fraud 12:50 p.m. — E. Division/N. Mill, traffic safety 1:30 p.m. — E. Railroad/Bishop, traffic stop 1:40 p.m. — E. Division/ McCleary, traffic stop 2 p.m. — N. Front/W. Telegraph, traffic stop, one arrested for traffic offense 2:40 p.m. — 900 block of Spruce, warrant arrest 2:55 p.m. — W. Prairie Ronde/N. Paul, traffic accident, non-injury 3 p.m. — 300 block of N. Lowe, assault 3:05 p.m. — 55000 block of Rudy, damage to property 5:35 p.m. — 500 block of Vineyard Place, suspicious
situation 6 p.m. — 29000 block of Amerihost, larceny 8:20 p.m. — 300 block of N. Lowe, Civil stand by March 14 11:40 a.m. — E. Division/N. Mill, traffic stop 1:45 p.m. — M-51 S/State, traffic stop 3:15 p.m. — 25000 block of Dutch Settlement, assist to Sheriff’s office 5:40 p.m. — 200 block of E. Prairie Ronde, non-traffic accident, non-injury 5:50 p.m. — 700 block of Marys, dog law violation 6:35 p.m. — 300 block of W. Division, suspicious situation 11 p.m. — E. Division/Riverside, traffic stop March 15 2:40 p.m. — Wolf/Wooden, traffic stop
3:10 p.m. — 100 block of N. Front, civil dispute 3:30 p.m. — 700 block of W. Prairie Ronde, traffic stop 3:50 p.m. — Riverside/ Dogwood, traffic stop 6:30 p.m. — 100 block of Spruce, damage to property 7 p.m. — McCleary/Clyborn, driving complaint 9:15 p.m. — 400 block of Walnut, civil dispute 10:30 p.m. — 500 block of Second, civil dispute March 16 12:20 a.m. — 800 block of Spruce, suspicious situation 1:10 a.m. — 500 block of Vineyard Place, public peace March 18 8:10 a.m. — 58000 block of Cherry Grove, suspicious situation 11:40 a.m. — 500 block of E. Telegraph, damage to property
GOT RESULTS? scott.novak@leaderpub.com (269) 687-7702
SPORTS SATURDAY, MARCH 21, 2020
MORE ONLINE For more stories and photos visit www.leaderpub.com
HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL
ALL-WEST DIVISION Nichols earns first-team on SMAC squad STAFF REPORT
Niles’ Demarian Nichols (top) and Michael Gilcrese (above) were named to the SMAC All-West Division boys basketball team. (Leader file photos)
NILES — Demarian Nichols was the lone Niles player to earn first-team SMAC All-West Division in boys basketball. Portage Central dominated the squad with four first-team picks, while Lakeshore and Portage Northern were second with three each. Niles’ Mike Gilcrese was an honorable mention selection.
The All-West Division team was selected on a vote by the coaches. SMAC All-West Division First team JJ Bushu, Lakeshore Dylan Clem, Lakeshore Luke Leto, Portage Central Grant Pikkaart, Portage Central Ben Brower, Lakeshore Nate Mason, Portage Northern Hunter Young, Portage Central
Jeff Wilson, Portage Northern Jalen Jones, Mattawan Smith Moore IV, Portage Central Tyler Amos, Portage Northern Demarian Nichols, Niles Honorable mention Jeremiah Sterling, St. Joseph Luke Hedstrom, St. Joseph Andy Blomgren, St. Joseph Jakobe Young, Lakeshore Anthony Tyus, Potage Nothern Nick Borre, St. Joseph Brennen Kerns, St. Joseph Tommy Martinic, Mattawan Mike Gilcrese, Niles
SPORTS
Page 10 • Saturday, March 21, 2020
Dowagiac Daily News
HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL
Sidenbender picks Bethel Senior waiting to see if he gets to play final season By SCOTT NOVAK scott.novak@leaderpub.com EDWARDSBURG — While Edwardsburg senior Colby Sidenbender waits to see if there is going to be baseball played this spring, at least he does not have to worry about picking a college. Sidenbender signed a national letter of intent to continue his education and athletic career at Bethel University back in late November. While many high school seniors pick and choose between multiple schools, Sidenbender knew precisely where he wanted to go. “I really wasn’t looking at a bunch of schools,” he said. “I was pretty set on Bethel.” Not only was the Pilots’ baseball program a draw for Sidenbender, so was the educational opportunity Bethel presented. “Academics was really important to me with the engineering program they have with Notre Dame,” he said. “The proximity
“
I have been working on stuff at home with my dad. Not being able to do much is tough.” — Colby Sidenbender, Edwardsburg
to home so that my parents could come to see me play, and then I really like Seth Zartman as a coach. He seemed like someone I could really vibe with.” Sidenbender said that is has been strange sitting around waiting to see if sports will return to Michigan before graduation. “I have been working on stuff with my dad [Brandywine baseball coach David Sidenbender],” he said. “Just throwing and hitting here. Not being able to do much has been really tough.” Sidenbender has also been in touch with teammates on the Edwardsburg squad to see how they are doing. “They are trying to get some workouts started,” he said. “I do not even know if they are doing that now because of how bad the virus has gotten.”
Colby Sidendenber (front) signed his national letter of intent to play baseball at Bethel University. From left in back are Edwardsburg coach A.J. Gaideski, mother Betsy, father David Sidenbender and Bethel coach Seth Zartman. (Submitted photo)
ATHLETE SHOWCASE — CLAIRE BARTZ Claire Bartz is a senior on the Edwardsburg girls basketball team.
week and basketball privates.
If I did not play sports, I would…? CB: Get a job.
What has been one of your greatest accomplishments as an athlete? CB: Being back-to-back district champions.
What other sport would you like to compete in if you were not playing yours? CB: Tennis.
What is the most challenging thing for you to do in your sport? CB: Beat someone off the dribble.
What has been one of your biggest disappointments as an athlete? CB: Not being able to beat Hamilton two years in a row. Who is a “hero” in your life and why? CB: My mom, because she is my biggest supporter and goes above and beyond for my family. When are you the most nervous while you are competing? CB: Tournament play. How do you tend to workout/train when by yourself? CB:: I try to go to my gym three or four times a
Claire Bartz
Why are sports an important part of a high school experi-
ence? CB: A lot of great memories and some best friends. How would you give away $50,000? CB: To children in poverty. If you could be the head coach of a team for a year, what team would you choose? CB: The Edwardsburg varsity girls.
What is your favorite hobby? Why? CB: Shopping, because I love clothes and appreciate good fashion. Choose one word to describe yourself: CB: Competitive.
Cassopolis Vigilant
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Last-minute reprieve
Deadline extended to redeem property for delinquent taxes By SARAH CULTON sarah.culton@leaderpub.com
“I’m excited because this is exactly what we were hoping for,” said Cass County Treasurer Hope CASSOPOLIS — Property own- Anderson. “A lot of people pay last ers in Michigan have received a minute, but that doesn’t give you last-minute reprieve in response a lot of leeway. This allows peoto concerns surrounding the ple some relief from the pressure COVID-19 outbreak. from having their Wednesday, Gov. home foreclosed.” Gretchen Whitmer Following the idensigned an executive tification of the first order extending the two presumptive casdeadline to redeem es of COVID-19 in the property for nonpaystate on March 10, ment of delinquent Whitmer declared a taxes. The extension State of Emergency gives property ownacross Michigan to ers across the state help stop the spread extra time to pay their of the virus. As a retaxes to avoid foreclosult, many county Hope Anderson sure. The extension governments, includwill remain in place until May 29, ing Berrien and Cass counties, or until 30 days after the state of have closed their buildings’ doors emergency placed on Michigan and limited access to the public. has been lifted. Without the exten- This has led to many county treasion, property owners would have surers being unable to process been looking at foreclosure April 1 redemption payments or enter if they did not pay their delinquent into payment plans with property taxes from 2017 or earlier. owners to avoid foreclosure.
“To mitigate the spread of COVID-19, protect the public health, and provide essential protections to vulnerable Michiganders, it is reasonable and necessary to temporarily suspend rules and procedures so as to extend the deadline for redemption of property foreclosed for nonpay-
ment of delinquent property taxes,” Whitmer wrote in her executive order. In Cass County, Anderson said the extension would affect approximately 150 residents, and already she has seen it provide relief to some of those people.
Earlier this week, she said she met with a restaurant owner whose business had taken a hit due to a mandated closure of dine-in services handed down by Whitmer Monday. As he was already struggling, he would have been facing foreclosure on April 1. Now, Anderson said he could spend this time focusing on his health and finding ways to pay his taxes rather than worrying about foreclosure. “I’m so happy our state is doing whatever it can to minimize the worries of our residents,” Anderson said. “It’s one less thing to worry about. People are worried about their health, their kids, and your property taxes are one less thing they have to worry about right now.” In addition to the extension, Anderson said other programs could help residents avoid foreclosures, such as hardship extensions and veterans’ programs. To learn more, contact Anderson at (269) 445-4468.
PACK IT UP Page 12 • Saturday, March 21, 2020
CASSOPOLIS VIGILANT
Dowagiac Daily News
Edwardsburg, Cassopolis schools offer free meals to students during shutdown By SARAH CULTON sarah.culton@leaderpub.com CASS COUNTY — For many children in Cass County, the only meal they could rely on daily was the one they received at school. So, when schools were mandated to close until at least April 5 last week by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to slow the spread of COVID-19, parents were worried. Now, local schools, including Edwardsburg Public Schools and Cassopolis Public Schools, are making efforts to provide meals to students while schools are closed. At Edwardsburg Public Schools, meals are being delivered to students at several locations. The program, which is being reimbursed by the state, is set to run until spring break, which begins April 3.
However, Superintendent Jim Knoll said that if the governor extends school closures, the district is prepared to continue running free meals through to the end of the year. So far, Knoll said the community is responding positively to the meal program, and many people are offering to volunteer should the district need help. “I think our families are grateful,” he said. “I want to say thank you to all the people who have volunteered and offered their time and efforts to make this happen.” At Edwardsburg Public Schools, through April 3, meals can be picked up between 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays by driving through one of the following locations: • Edwardsburg Middle School, 69410 Section St., Edwardsburg
• Eagle Lake Elementary, 23889 Avenue C, Edwardsburg • Five Points Minland Machine, 19801 M-205, Edwardsburg • Milton Township Hall, 32019 Bertrand St., Niles On Tuesdays and Fridays, each child will receive three breakfasts and three lunches (12 total meals per week). An EPS school bus will be at each location to hand out meals, which are available by drivethrough only. For more information, visit edwardsburgpublicschools.org, or call (269) 663-3055. In Cassopolis, Cassopolis Public Schools will be providing breakfast and lunch to any child under the age of 18 or anyone 26 and under with a disability. The district will be See MEALS, page 13
Both Cassopolis and Edwardsburg schools are distributing free meals to students during the mandated school closures. Pictured above are Edwardsburg Public School bus drivers Melinda Becker and Denise Flynn at a pickup location in Milton Township. (Leader photos/EMILY SOBECKI)
Dowagiac Daily News
CASSOPOLIS VIGILANT
Saturday, March 21, 2020 • Page 13
MEALS
Continued from page 12 serving pre-packaged breakfast along with several days of lunch items that can be easily assembled for fresh meals until the next distribution day. Students do not need to be present at pickup, and district officials encourage the community to help out their neighbors by picking up meals and delivering to those who cannot make the pickup time, district officials wrote in a letter to parents. To pick up meals, the district is asking that individuals bring containers to take home. Meals will be offered from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays at the following locations: • Sam Admas Elementary School, southeast parking lot, 101 S. East St., Cassopolis • Penn Township Fire Department, 17977 Wood St., Vandalia
Edwardsburg High School Principal Ryan Markel and bus drivers Melinda Becker and Denise Flynn give out breakfast and lunches to people in need while schools are closed in case of the COVID-19 disease. (Leader photo/EMILY SOBECKI)
Above, Cassopolis Public School provide breakfast and lunch to students in need. (Submitted photos)
Jill Davis, an Edwardsburg Public Schools food service member, helps pass out meals on Tuesday. Davis said there are three breakfasts and three lunches in every sack. “The food is all different and random in each one. The government required fruits and vegetables per meal.” Davis said. “This is for everyone. You don’t need to be a student or family of Edwardsburg.” (Leader photo/EMILY SOBECKI)
Helping hands Page 14 • Saturday, March 21, 2020
CASSOPOLIS VIGILANT
Dowagiac Daily News
Food pantries revise procedures amid COVID-19 outbreak By AMBROSIA NELDON ambrosia.neldon@leadeprub.com CASSOPOLIS — For the first time in Mary Tompi’s 15 years working at Helping Hands in Cassopolis, the nonprofit’s thrift store has closed its doors to foot traffic. Like so many organizations across the country, Helping Hands closed the thrift store as a precautionary measure to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. The decision was a difficult one, as need for food from the nonprofit’s food pantry will only rise during the continued social distancing mandate. Food pantries across Cass County, including Helping Hands and the Edwardsburg Food Pantry, have limited donations to drive-up only. Groceries will be prepackaged at both locations. Helping Hands organizers are asking those receiving donations to set up appointments before receiving or dropping off donations. “I can speak for everyone involved with the organization when I state that we are sorry for any inconvenience, but for the safety of our volunteers, staff, their families and yours, we are implementing these procedures immediately,” said Tompi, manager of Helping Hands. “We are very grateful for your patronage and sincerely hope these health threats are over soon so we may continue business as usual by opening our doors back up to all our faithful friends and customers.”
The Edwardsburg Food Pantry is typically open from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday at Our Lady of the Lake Church, 24832 U.S. Highway 12 in Edwardsburg. “In addition to that, we are also going to offer for others in the community on April 4 special Saturday hours,” said Amy Traxler, Edwardsburg pantry coordinator. Those in need of food in the Edwardsburg School District and village of Union may visit from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. that Saturday,
just as they would during other donation windows. Those needing assistance will receive prepacked grocery bags. To protect staff and patrons, Helping Hands asks that all clients requesting assistance with food must have a referral, which can be obtained through the Department of Human Services or by calling 2-1-1. Helping Hands pantry hours will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday at 130 S. Broadway St., Cassopolis. Hours of operation are sub-
ject to change. Helping Hands clients must come to the back door and ring the doorbell for service. Once the client is checked in, they must return to their vehicle, and a food box will be brought out to them. “People on foot will be asked to remain outside the building while their box is being packed,” Tompi said. The Helping Hands manager said families are facing additional economic strain as they have to feed children who
are not receiving lunch from school. The organization facilitates a Red Backpack Program in which at-risk students take home a backpack full of snacks. “Food stamps are being used up more quickly than usual, and they have two weeks before they receive the next round,” Tompi said. “If parents are hurting, we just ask that they call and make an appointment to come in.” Families in both Cassopolis and Edwardsburg are encouraged to take advantage of the meals being provided by the school districts. “We’re running low on different backpack items that the kids would use,” she said. “Even though the backpacks are usually weekend food, it’s all week food they need.” Tompi said items running low include snack foods like juice boxes and raisins. Those wishing to make donations in Cassopolis are asked to call Helping Hands of Cass County at (269) 445-8104 to arrange drop-off. “Meijer has been very generous in helping us, and we are hesitant to ask for donations from individual households just because of the handling of items,” Traxler said of the Edwardsburg Food Pantry. “The best thing that anyone could do is make monetary donations.” Donation checks may be written out to EFP and mailed to Our Lady of the Lake Church, 24832 U.S. Highway 12, Edwardsburg, Michigan.
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Dowagiac Daily News
Saturday, March 21, 2020 • Page 15
Answer to previous puzzle ACROSS 1. Currency of Guinea 5. Avert something bad 10. Sounds 12. Immediate dangers 14. Legendary Tar Heels coach 16. Californium 18. Work standards government dept. (abbr.) 19. Coastal Scottish town 20. Triangular lower back bones 22. Trouble 23. A way to smile 25. Something that is not what it seems 26. Of she 27. Temporary living quarters 28. Bag-like structure in a plant or animal 30. Indicates near 31. Spiritual leader 33. Soup dish 35. Philippine island 37. No longer fashionable
38. Peaks 40. Alabama football team 41. __ King Cole 42. Digital audiotape 44. Open trough 45. The woman 48. Cools down 50. Turkic language 52. Body part 53. Pulse steadily 55. Embedded computer hardware company 56. Indicates shape 57. Thou (plural) 58. Odd and remarkable 63. An evening party 65. National capital of Zambia 66. Tantalizes 67. Dark brown or black
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11. Measuring instrument 13. Minor dust-ups 15. Strongly alkaline solution 17. Extreme scarcity of food 18. Dash 21. Philly culinary specialty 23. Popular lager __ Adams 24. Snitch 27. Trimmed 29. Greek god of desire 32. Take to the limit 34. Cool! 35. Sound mental health 36. Native American group 39. Test for high schoolers 40. Rocky peak 43. Preferences 44. Bother 46. Call attention to (slang) 47. Snake-like fish 49. Bulgarian capital 51. Don’t know when yet 54. Italian Seaport 59. Brooklyn hoopster 60. Where to bathe 61. Equal, prefix 62. Beverage container 64. Denotes openness
ANSWERS
Here’s How It Works:
Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!
Page 16 • Saturday, March 21, 2020
Dowagiac Daily News
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Fapco in West Buchanan Hiring Full-Time Packers Clean environment. Day Shifts: Monday-Friday 7am-3:30pm Night Shifts: Monday-Thursday 3:30pm-2am ,62 &HUWLÂżHG Advancement opportunities, PHGLFDO EHQHÂżWV N HWF Apply in person: 8am-3pm, M-F 216 Post Road, Buchanan MI Call 800-782-0167
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Postle Extrusion, a growing aluminum extrusion company located in southwest Michigan, is now hiring for the following positions:
www.candsmachine.com/careers
LOCAL BOX TRUCK DRIVER NEEDED 26’ BOX TRUCK, NEW LEASED EQUIPMENT •FULL TIME •MUST BE ABLE TO LIFT 60 POUNDS •REQUIRES DRIVER TO LOAD /UNLOAD TRUCK •VALID CHAUFFEUR LICENSE •MUST HAVE EXPERIENCE ***HOURLY,401K, ***VACATION/HOLIDAY PAY Apply in person 27328 May St Edwardsburg, MI
Now Hiring Mechanic’s Assistant. 2 years experience required for light truck and trailer maintenance. 40+ hours/week. Hourly pay, 7am-3:30pm. Must have own tools. Please contact Darrell: 574-295-1905 dpritt@superiortireaxle.com
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NOW HIRING FULL-TIME •Maintenance Supervisor ,QVXUDQFH %HQH¿WV
Apply in person No phone calls please! 1900 E. Main St, Niles EOE
The Cass County COA Now Hiring Part-Time Home Care Aides If you are passionate about caring for others contact COA’s HR-Department for more information: 269-445-8110
Now Hiring Full-Time Project Manager/Estimator for Construction Company in Elkhart, Indiana. For full job description visit fmconstruction.com/jobs
•General Labor •Industrial Maintenance •Die Repair •Experienced Supervisor •Production •Extrusion Operators •Die Tech/Correctors •Maintenance Tech •Maintenance Journeymen We offer competitive wages, excellent health EHQH¿WV N DQG OLIH insurance Apply in person at 201 N. Edwards St. Cassopolis, MI Apply online at: www.postledistributors.com and click on Employment, or send resume to HR@postledistributors.com Brothers Baking Now Hiring Production Workers/packers 1stshift/Full-Time 27260 Max St., Edwardsburg information@brothersbaking.com Put your ad here call 269-591-6105.
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Deals & Bargains
Furniture & Appliances
Saturday, March 21, 2020 • Page 17
Rentals
Automobiles
Apartments
Fuel and Wood 2006 Chevy Van Express. Good condition. $6,000 or best offer. Phone 269-449-0865,
RETAIL CLERK
Selling your home?
Must be 18 or older, Experience preferred, %HQH¿WV Apply at Shelton’s Farm Market, 1832 South 11th St (M-51) Niles,MI, 49120 SEMI-DRIVERS NEEDED HOME MOST NIGHTS! Great starting pay. )XOO EHQH¿WV SDFNDJH LQFOXGLQJ N YDFDWLRQ SD\ &ODVV $ &'/ ZLWK RQH \HDUœV YHUL¿DEOH H[SHULHQFH JRRG GULYLQJ UHFRUG 0XVW EH DEOH WR SDUN WUXFN QHDU RU DW KRPH Call 1-800-544-6798
Advertise here and sell it faster. Call Classifieds at 269-591-6105.
Boats & Watercraft
Furniture & Appliances
Garage Sales BILL’S APPLIANCES Call Us To Place Your Ad! 269-591-6105
Merchandise Antiques & Collectibles WANTED: Antiques, collectibles, jewelry, coins. Dr. Saxton 574-309-3666
Building Equip CALL US TO PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD! 269-591-6105
Do you have available jobs? Call 269-591-6105 to let others know about job opportunities at your business.
Want to Buy Merchandise
Auctions & Sales
New, Scratch & Dent, & Used Appliance
1420 S.11th St,Niles (269)340-5952 Refrigerators Stoves Washer/Dryers Microwaves Freezer Dishwashers Mon-Fri: 10am-6pm Saturday:10am-4pm Sunday: Closed
Landlord Discounts!! Need to find the right employee?
WE CAN HELP. Reach the county for less using Leader Publications classifieds. Need a quick quote? Submit your ad online at LeaderPub.com. Call 269-591-6105.
For Sale: 17’ Alluminum Sea Nymph Fishing Boat. VGUC. 60HP Evinrude motor, yacht club trailer, tournament ÀVK ÀQGHU &REUD WUROOLQJ PRWRU $4,300 call 219-707-1883
WANTED STANDING TIMBER Large Michigan lumber manufacturer seeking land owners with 25 or more mature hardwood trees to sell Call: (517)566-8061 qualityhardwoodsinc.com
Notices Community Events
Transportation Automobiles
2011 Chevy Malibu, 4 door, 6 Cylinder, Automatic, Clean, Runs Great,Good Transportation, Loaded, Air, Power Windows, Locks & Seats, Read Defrost. Priced Reduced Only $4,995.00 Call 269-462-9260 or 269-262-6448 FOR SALE 2017 Kia Forte 4dr Low mileage! Only $750 down! No Credit Checks. No Interest. No Banks to deal with. We do all of our ¿QDQFLQJ LQ KRXVH 6WRS E\ today for your new vehicle! Call Scarlett’s for more info 269-461-4197 2001 Cadillac Deville Red exterior, black leather interior. Good condition, new battery, new shocks, no oil leaks. MAKE AN OFFER! (269)782-5950
12ft Star Craft 5 HP electric motor. Heavy duty trailer. EZ Load Trailer. $750 (269)210-7013
Trucks, SUVs & Vans
2008 Dodge Ram 1500 Quad Cab 4X4 Truck, Very Clean Runs Great, Leather and Power Seats, Power Windows, Power Locks, Power Mirrors, Power Moonroof, Power Sliding Rear Window, Cruise Control, Temperature/Compass, Keyless Entry,Tilt Steering, Air, AM/FM, CD Player, Plastic Bed Liner,Brand New Good Year Tires. $1,000 worth of Tires. Great Transportation or Family Vehicle. Price Reduced Only $9,995.00 Call: 269-462-9260 or 269-262-6448
Do you have available jobs? Call 269-591-6105 to let others know about job opportunities at your business.
Page 18 • Saturday, March 21, 2020
Trucks, SUVs & Vans
Services
FOR SALE Need a New Work Van? We have the perfect one! 2017 Ford E450 16’ Box Van $1,000 down $450 month *Excellent condition *NO INTEREST :H GR DOO RXU ¿QDQFLQJ LQ house! Stop by today for your new vehicle! Call Scarlett’s for more info 269-461-4197 Selling your home? Advertise here and sell it faster. Call Classifieds at 269-591-6105.
FOR SALE 2017 Hyundai Elantra Low mileage! Only $750 down! No Credit Checks. No Interest. No Banks to deal with. We do all of our ¿QDQFLQJ LQ KRXVH 6WRS E\ today for your new vehicle! Call Scarlett’s for more info 269-461-4197 We Have Interstate Batteries!
Construction
KARE SERVICES Compassionate Home Care Services (269)684-1984 (574)292-2900 email: kmkaidan@aol.com www.KAREService.com
Concrete Work
Home Improvement
Michiana Masonry & Construction All your Masonry needs! Chimney Cleaning Insured & Bonded Senior Discounts 269-362-1566
Caregiving
Do you have available jobs? Call 269-591-6105 to let others know about job opportunities at your business.
BRADY CONCRETE
Specializing in: •Flat work of all types •Seawalls•Pole Barn Floors •Stamped Concrete •Bobcat Services Free Estimates, Insured Fast, Dependable Service
269-445-3349 or 269-591-0100
Do you have available jobs? Call 269-591-6105 to let others know about job opportunities at your business.
CALL US TO PLACE YOUR BUSINESS AD! 269-591-6105
Garbage Services Cheaper Than A Dumpster & we do the work LLC! We move anything & everything including sheds, pianos,& jacuzzis! Have a nice day! 574-514-6784 7am-5pm, 7 days a week!
BOOK YOUR VACATION NOW – CALL FOR LIMITED-TIME SAVINGS FROM
FROM
$
1,749
$
2,249
1,999 *
1,499 *
$
$
Roofing and Guttering
Public Notices
HOME REPAIRS & REMODELING
FCI BUILDING 6KLQJOH 0HWDO 5RRÂżQJ Home & Roof Maintenance Siding & Gutters Windows & Doors General Construction 269-782-7310 fcibuilding@yahoo.com
Call Randy 269-782-3139 or 269-208-9838 Bondhomeimprovements.com
Septic Tank Service
Please take notice that Ordinance 208 (amended August 11, 2008) requires that all noxious weeds and brush growing on land or premises owned or occupied by you must be cut, removed and destroyed and that grasses and uncultivated vegetation on an improved property exceeding 10 inches in height, not cut by May 1st, may be cut by the Village and the owner or occupant of the property shall be charged with all costs and expenses incurred. All expenses incurred by the Village, in the performance of the cutting or destroying of noxious weeds or the cutting of grasses and uncultivated vegetation, shall constitute a lien against the property upon which such work was performed until paid in full.
Over 30yrs of experience! •Tile Work•Kitchens •Porches•Bathrooms•Decks •Windows•Doors•Siding •Window Wrapping ‡)DVFLD‡6RI¿W
Junk Removal AMERICAN TRASH Trash & Junk Hauling •Appliances•Truck•Trailer •Labor•Rental Properties •Demo Clean-Outs
Veteran Owned Company 574-904-8760 GoAmericanTrash.com
Lawn Care & Landscaping Spring Clean Ups Schedule spring clean ups, mowing, pruning and all your yard landscaping needs Also buying Walnut trees Call: 269-362-2735
FREE ONBOARD CREDIT
GRAND ALASKAN CRUISE & TOUR
BEST OF HAWAII FOUR-ISLAND TOUR
Seattle • Juneau • Glacier Bay • Anchorage • and more
Oahu • Maui • Hawaii • Kaui
12 days, departs May - September 2020
13 days, departs year-round
Enjoy a spectacular cruise & tour between Seattle and Alaska including 7 nights aboard Holland America Line’s ms Westerdam and 4 nights on land. You’ll cruise the Gulf of Alaska and the Inside Passage—a breathtaking sea lane teeming with marine wildlife, where you’ll pass glaciers, towering mountains, and lush forests, with stops in Ketchikan, historic Skagway, and magniďŹ cent Glacier Bay. On land, you’ll go deep into Denali National Park, tour Anchorage, and see the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.
Enjoy a fully guided 4-island Hawaiian vacation with beachfront lodging on Kauai, Maui, and the “Big Islandâ€? of Hawaii, and in Waikiki on Oahu. Includes a Pearl Harbor experience where you will see the USS Arizona Memorial. Visit historic Lahaina, enjoy a boat cruise on the Wailua River, and authentic Hawaiian entertainment and food at our Farewell Feast. Guided throughout by our friendly Tour Directors—your local experts. Price includes 3 interisland ights.
Roofing and Guttering
1,749
1,499
Bill’s Roof Repair
Residential & Commercial •Repairs•New Roofs •Shingles•Flat Roofs •Metal/Rubber•Flashing •Chimney Repairs •Vent Pipes•Gutters•Sidings
FROM
FROM
$
$
$
1,749
1,499
*
$
CRIMSON CANYONS & MESAS NATIONAL PARKS TOUR
BELLA ITALIA TOUR
10 days, departs May - September 2020 Prepare to be amazed as you experience the stunningly red rocks of 6 iconic southwestern national parks. Formed by the elements over countless centuries, these natural treasures are still grand enough to make our jaws drop. Experience several of the most popular national parks in the United States, traveling through dramatic deserts, lush forests, deep valleys, soaring mountains, and to the very edge of the South Rim of the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon, one of the most famous natural wonders of the world.
10 days, departs May - September 2020
Las Vegas • Grand Canyon • Bryce Canyon • Zion • Arches • Capitol Reef National Park • and more
*
Lifetime Warranty on All Labor Performed Free Estimates Call Us Now!! 269-591-5700 Visit us at: billsroofrepair.com
Rome • The Vatican City • Pisa • Florence • Orvieto • Bologna • Venice • Verona • Tuscany • and more
Promo code N7017
CALL 1-855-771-1489
*Prices are per person based on double occupancy plus up to $299 in taxes & fees. Cruise pricing based on lowest cabin category after Instant Rebate; upgrades available. Single supplement and seasonal surcharges may apply. Add-on airfare available. Onboard Credit requires purchase of Ocean View or Balcony Cabin. For full Set Sail terms and conditions see www.ymtvacations.com/setsailoffers. Offers apply to new bookings only, made by 3/31/20. Other terms & conditions may apply. Ask your Travel Consultant for details.
Deer Path Excavating Septic Repair and all other Excavating needs!! Please Call: 269-208-5180
Public Notices Legal Notices LEGAL NOTICE STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF CASS NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 2020-038-DE Estate of DAVID JOSEPH DALMER, deceased Date of birth: 5/29/1962 TO ALL CREDITORS:* NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, David Joseph Dalmer, died 9/26/19. Creditors of the decedent are QRWL¿HG WKDW DOO FODLPV DJDLQVW the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Ken Dalmer, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 60296 M-62, Cassopolis, MI 49031 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. 3/17/20 Ken Dalmer, 8429 Tinkler Rd., 6WHUOLQJ +HLJKWV 0, *UHJRU\ + )HOGPDQ P48645, P.O. Box 486, Niles, MI 49120, 269-683-0700 &DVVRSROLV 9LJLODQW Mar. 21, 2020 EST/DALMER, D.
Public Notices
See Italy’s iconic sights! Start in Rome, where you’ll see The Vatican City, gaze in awe at the Sistine Chapel, walk through St. Peter’s Square, and stop at the Trevi Fountain. Ride a funicular in ancient Orvieto and stroll through the spa town of Montecatini Terme. Visit Pisa’s leaning tower, historic Florence, the canals of Venice, and the Romeo and Juliet balcony in fair Verona, before your ďŹ nal stop in magniďŹ cent Milan. Enjoy exquisite food, stunning sights, fascinating history, and the company of brand-new friends.
PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE TO CUT WEEDS, BRUSH AND NOXIOUS GROWTHS
GUIDED TOUR EXPERTS – CALL FOR YOUR FREE BROCHURE TM
Dowagiac Daily News
www.leaderpub.com
Selling your home? Advertise here and sell it faster. Call Classifieds at 269-591-6105.
To the owners of lots, lands and premises within the Village of Cassopolis:
Tonia Betty, Village Clerk Cassopolis Vigilant: Mar. 21, 2020 CUT WEEDS PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CASS COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION
The Cass County Road Commission will hold a public hearing to establish a permit fee schedule WORK IN PUBLIC RIGHT OF WAY PERMIT FEE SCHEDULE
The public hearing will be held at the regular Board Meeting on Thursday March 26, 2020, at 9:00 a.m. in the Board Room of the Cass County Road ComPLVVLRQ RIÂżFH 1 2Âś.HHIH 6WUHHW &DVVRSROLV 0, BOARD OF COUNTY ROAD COMMISSIONERS COUNTY OF CASS, MICHIGAN Leader Publications: 0DU PUBLIC HEARING
Raise your hand if you want your business to make LESS money next year. We didn’t think you would. Do you need to successfully market on a tight budget? Leader Publications Classified Marketplace has customizable programs available to fit any budget.
DON’T WAIT! Call TODAY 269-591-6105
Dowagiac Daily News
LOCAL
Saturday, March 21, 2020 • Page 19
LET’S GO ON AN EASTER EGG HUNT! Social distancing has put a damper on some spring traditions, but we can still have fun if we get creative! Let’s hunt Easter eggs from a safe distance!
HOW IT WORKS: 1. DECORATE THE EASTER EGG. 2. CUT IT OUT. 3. HANG IT SOMEWHERE VISIBLE. 4. GO FOR A WALK OR TAKE A DRIVE WITH FAMILY OR FRIENDS AND SEE HOW MANY EGGS YOU CAN SPOT!
Have fun and be safe, readers!
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leaderpub.com With every closing, we’re
opening doors.
Apply online at Ruoff.com/ronrogers Ron Rogers
Senior Loan Officer | NMLS: 1064148
269.449.0754 ron.rogers@ruoff.com 815 E. Main Street, Suite B, Niles, MI 49120
TO ADVERTISE, CALL YOUR MARKETING REP TODAY! Berrien County: (269) 687-7728 • Cass County: (269) 687-7725